Brazil a shadow of the past

The trickery and intricate skill we expect were on display, but Wembley’s first visiting nation were far from convincing

"We had six chances to score and we only trained for 30 minutes," said Brazil coach Dunga after Friday's last-gasp draw with England, which adds substance to the impression that we had hardly seen the "real" Brazil at Wembley.

The wheels turned spasmodically on Friday, and when Brazil raised their game, especially through Ronaldinho or Kaka, goals were threatened. There were also marvellous, intricate episodes of close passing under heavy pressure, especially in the first half. But Diego's well-taken goal apart, Paul Robinson had only one notable save to make when, in the second half, he dived to turn a fierce shot by Ronaldinho round the post. Robinson also did well, in the closing minutes, to dive on a dangerous cross from Diego.

Brazil, like England, were not at full strength. In defence they lacked the experience of the injured Lucio, who was replaced by the towering debutant Naldo. But